Broken Bone First Aid

A Broken Bone Needs Immediate Attention

If you or someone else suffers a broken bone (also called a “fracture”) it will need immediate medical attention. Time is of the essence to help ensure proper healing and that full use of the bone will be retained. Call 911 and then follow these tips below if you ever find yourself in a situation where you are able to assist a broken bone situation.

Broken Bone First Aid Tips

If the injury is bleeding, apply pressure to the wound with a sterile bandage, a clean cloth or piece of clothing.

Keep the injured area still and secure. Never try to realign the broken bone, or push an exposed bone back inside.

Use a cold compress or ice pack/bag wrapped in a towel or cloth to reduce swelling and relieve pain.

If it appears that shock is setting in – the person feels faint or has shortness of breath – lay them down and elevate their legs.

Be On the Lookout For:

Whether or not the person is unresponsive, isn’t breathing or remains motionless. Initiate CPR if you cannot find a pulse.

Bluish tints at the tips of the extremities connected to the broken bone.

It’s recommended that you rarely move an injured person unless absolutely necessary. Before beginning these first aid tips, contact an emergency team by dialing 911. Once the ambulance is on its way, follow the tips above to help jump-start the healing process and potentially save a life. If you would like to learn more about setting broken bones, first aid, CPR or anything else, please contact our medical team at Physician Partners of America today.